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Brownstein said Simmons was related to the two victims and cared for them while their legal guardian was working.

The victims were interviewed by specialists at Hope Haven of the Lowcountry rape crisis center, who determined their stories were "consistent and credible," according to the release.

Simmons was arrested in July 2012.

Brownstein said the boys told the relative about the abuse after they were placed in the person's care. The relative ultimately adopted the two boys.

Assistant solicitor Mary Jordan Lempesis prosecuted Simmons in the case. In the release, she said the verdict "ensured these children's bravery would be rewarded with justice."

"One of our jobs as prosecutors is to protect the most vulnerable in our society," she said. "I am proud of the children in this case for having the courage to tell their story and to prevent this dangerous man from hurting anyone else."

The jury deliberated for six hours Thursday after a three-day trial before reaching the guilty verdict. Shortly after the jury announced its verdict, Judge Carmen Mullen gave the maximum sentence of life in prison.

Brownstein said the two victims testified during the trial, along with 11 other witnesses. Simmons did not testify and did not speak before he was sentenced, Brownstein said.

Simmons had prior convictions for criminal domestic violence and malicious injury to personal property, according to the release.